Devoted to customer service and the principles of exceptional customer services

Each person has their own definition of success.  I’ve defined my idea of success before, but the more I think about it, I’ve come to realize that if I could choose one thing that defines success for me, it would be all about happiness.  Am I happy doing what I’m doing?  Does serving others bring me happiness?  Are my personal and business relationships fulfilling?

In Bud Bilanich’s new book, Straight Talk for Success: 15 Things to Master if You Want to Succeed in Your Life and Career, he talks about building strong relationships.  If there’s anything you should learn about customer service and being successful in a service industry, I think it’s interpersonal competence.  

The first point that Bud Bilanich makes in the chapter about building strong relationships is “Serve Others First”.  Many of us are always asking, “What’s in it for me?” and not enough people asking, “How will I serve?”   Bilanich goes on to share some of the things that he’s learned about building strong relationships including being truthful, being a friend, and helping people succeed.  My favorite lesson that he shares is:  Live in the human moment.  This means engaging fully with people by paying attention and looking them in the eye, listening to understand people’s feelings, and showing empathy.

As I was reading Straight Talk For Success, I actually felt as if I was sitting in a coffee shop with Bud Bilanich.  His writing style is very down-to-earth and conversational.  

You can learn more about Bud by reading his blogs, Career Super Star and Success Common Sense.  His book launched today and is available at Amazon.com.  Since today is Earth Day, Bud is donating 10% of today’s book sales to Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado.